How to Skim

An Overview of the skimming process.

Learning how to skim? There is an important step first wall preparation (in Index).

The Finish Coat

The skim (finish) coat is the final coat and is responsible for
smoothness. It is not designed to flatten so the background to which it
is being applied must be flat – if not it can be near impossible to
remove trowel marks.

Not only this but an uneven background can result in some areas
having a greater thickness of plaster. The firming up process is
influenced by the thickness of plaster. When the plaster begins to firm
up - it behaves differently so whilst cannot be flattened so easily -
holes and hollow areas can be filled and trowel marks removed.

Therefore if one part of the wall is twice as thick as another,
it could take twice as long for it to firm up, which means it cannot be
finished like the areas that are becoming firm. This is inconvenient if
confined to one edge of the wall but if there are several areas like
this then it can result in an inconsistent and sub standard finish.

The importance of a flat backing coat can't be underestimated.

An understanding of all the stages of skimming is essential in achieving a nice flat and smooth finish. It is not just a case of applying the plaster and immediately smoothing it out: if you feel you are going round in circles, solving one problem but creating another, there's a chance it is too wet. Walking away from the wall and allowing it firm up a bit before you try and complete the next stage may be all that is needed!

There are 6 stages of skimming to complete - once you know what you are aiming for at each different stage, and how to carry this objective out, skimming becomes much easier - honest!

The author cannot accept liability for
the use of any of the materials or methods recommended in this manual or
for any consequences arising out of their use. The author cannot
guarantee the suitability of any recommendations made in this manual and
shall not be under any legal liability of any kind in respect of or
arising out of the content of this guide.